I've been tagged on the My Writing Process blog hop by Ally Shields. The rules are simple: link back to her blog and forward to three other writers, plus answer the following questions:

1. What am I working on?

I am currently working on a YA Fantasy, Dreamscape: Saving Alex. I just crossed the 60,000 word mark, and should be finished with the first draft in a couple of weeks. It is a fast paced fantasy adventure full of fantasy, romance, and nostalgic fun. I anticipate it's release Fall 2014.

2. How does my work differ from others in its genre?

That is a good question, and a tough one. I write the stories that speak to me, so they are not always contained to one specific genre... or follow all the rules. I don't know that they are necessarily different than others in the genre, but they are written with my voice.

My middle grade fantasy series revolves around Princess Madeline, a strong willed princess determined to live her life on her terms. This creates all sorts of havoc, adventure, and conflict. In this series I wanted to portray a traditional story, with a modern twist.

The Ivory Tower is a dark dystopian, that makes a statement about government control and protection. In writing this, I learned that not every story can have a happy ending.

3. Why do I write what I do?

The stories that I write just come to me. It will happen when I least expect it, that burst of inspiration that confines me to my computer until the words run dry. Part of my creative expression is through writing, and sharing stories. I write to entertain, to make statements, and also to explore different philosophical ideas.

4. How does my writing process work?

I wish I had a good process :)

The ideas come, and from there I start. I always begin with a general outline. I need to have an idea of where my story is going, what idea I want to cover, and how the characters will get me there. From that point, I begin writing. I write the first draft until complete, and then begin the editing process. I will edit once or twice through myself before sending off to my trusted beta team for comments or concerns. From there, I make re-writes, and off to my final editor to polish the edges. Each step has a different joy attached to it. This seems straight forward, but considering it takes place either all late at night or early in the mornings, it is a stretch to fit it all in. But it is worth every hour of lost sleep and extra pot of coffee.